CKC Japanese Spaniel Breed Standards

SizeIn size they vary considerably, but the smaller they are the better, provided type and quality are not sacrificed. When divided by weight, classes should be under and over 7 lb. (3 kg).

Coat and ColourCoat profuse, long, straight, rather silky. It should be absolutely free from wave or curl, and not lie too flat, but have a tendency to stand out, especially at the neck, so as to give a thick mane or ruff, which with profuse feathering on thighs and tail gives a very showy appearance. The dogs should be either black and white or red and white, i.e., particoloured. The term red includes all shades of sable, brindle, lemon and orange, but the brighter and clearer the red the better. The white should be clear white, and the colour, whether black or red, should be evenly distributed patches over the body, cheek, and ears.

HeadShould be large for the size of the dog, with broad skull, rounded in front. Nose very short in the muzzle part. The end or nose proper should be wide, with open nostrils, and must be the colour of the dog?s markings, i.e., black in black-marked dogs, and red or deep flesh colour in red or lemon-marked dogs. It shall be a disqualification for a black and white Japanese Spaniel to have a nose any other colour than black. Eyes large, dark, lustrous, rather prominent and set wide apart. Ears small and V-shaped, nicely feathered, set wide apart and high on the head and carried slightly forward.

NeckShould be short and moderately thick.

ForequartersThe bones of the legs should be small, giving them a slender appearance, and they should be well feathered.

BodyShould be squarely and compactly built, wide in chest, cobby in shape. The length of the dog's body should be about its height.

HindquartersFeet small and shaped somewhat long; the dog stands up on its toes somewhat. If feathered, the tufts should never increase in width of the foot, but only its length a trifle.

TailMust be well twisted to either right or left from root and carried up over back and flow on opposite side; it should be profusely covered with long hair (ring tails not desirable).

GaitThese dogs should be essentially stylish in movement, lifting the feet high when in action, carrying the tail (which is heavily feathered, proudly curved or plumed) over the back.

DisqualificationsIn black and whites, a nose any other colour than black.